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[[Image:Gibson Les Paul Studio c.jpg|thumb|right|180px|A [[Gibson Les Paul]] Studio model]]This is an alphabetized list of musicians who have made '''[[WP:NOTE|notable]]''' use of [[Gibson Guitar Corporation product list|Gibson Guitar models]] in live performances or studio recordings. Because of the great popularity of these models, musicians are listed here only if their use of these instruments was especially significant — that is, they are musicians with long careers who have a history of faithful Gibson use, or the particular instrument they used was unique or of historical importance, or their use of the Gibson model contributed significantly to the popularization of that particular instrument.
{{Infobox musical artist | <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
| Name = [[Image:KISS logo.png|150px]]
| Img = KISS in concert Boston 2004.jpg
| Img_capt = Kiss in concert in Boston, 2004, left to right: [[Gene Simmons]], [[Tommy Thayer]], [[Paul Stanley]] and [[Eric Singer]]
| Img_size =
| Background = group_or_band
| Alias =
| Origin = [[Image:Flag of USA.svg|25px|US flag]] [[New York City]], [[New York|NY]], [[United States of America|USA]]
| Genre = [[Hard rock]]<br />[[Glam rock]]<br />[[Heavy metal music|Heavy metal]]<!-- Before changing any of these genres, please see the relevant discussion on the Talk page first. -->
| Years_active = [[1973 in music|1973]] — [[present (time)|Present]]
| Label = [[Casablanca Records|Casablanca]], [[Mercury Records|Mercury]], [[Sanctuary Records|Sanctuary]], Kiss Records
| Associated_acts = [[ESP (band)|ESP]]<br />[[Frehley's Comet]]<br />[[Union (band)|Union]]<br />[[Vinnie Vincent Invasion]]<br />[[White Tiger (band)|White Tiger]]<br />[[Wicked Lester]]
| URL = [http://www.kissonline.com/ www.kissonline.com]
| Current_members = [[Gene Simmons]]<br />[[Paul Stanley]]<br />[[Eric Singer]]<br />[[Tommy Thayer]]
| Past_members = [[Peter Criss]]<br />[[Ace Frehley]]<br />[[Eric Carr]] <small>(deceased)</small><br />[[Vinnie Vincent]]<br />[[Mark St. John]]<br />[[Bruce Kulick]]
}}
'''Kiss''' (sometimes typeset "KISS", to fit the official logo) is an [[United States|American]] [[Rock music|rock]] [[band (music)|band]] formed in [[New York City]] in [[1973 in music|1973]]. Easily identified by their [[trademark]] face paint and stage outfits, the group rose to prominence in the mid-1970s on the basis of their elaborate live performances, which featured firebreathing, blood spitting, smoking guitars, and pyrotechnics. Kiss have been awarded 22 [[Music recording sales certification|gold albums]] to date, and have certified sales of 19 million records in the United States.<ref name="riaa">[http://www.riaa.com/gp/bestsellers/artist.asp "Artist Tallies"]. ''Billboard''. Retrieved [[April 17]] [[2006]].</ref><ref name="riaa2">[http://www.riaa.com/gp/bestsellers/topartists.asp "Top Artists"]. ''Billboard''. Retrieved [[April 17]] [[2006]].</ref> The group's worldwide sales exceed 80 million albums.<ref name="innerview">Falina, Melanie. [http://www.chicagoinnerview.com/archives/jul04_kiss.htm "Kiss My Asshole: Tongue-Wagging Gene Simmons Summons the Kiss Army"]. Chicago Innerview. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref><ref name="sambass">[http://www.sambass.com/news/0308KISScar.php?theme=tear "Sam Bass-Designed ACDelco/KISS Cavalier Unveiled"]. Sam Bass Illustration & Design, Inc. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref>
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The original lineup of [[Gene Simmons]] ([[Bass guitar|bass]] and [[vocals]]), [[Paul Stanley]] ([[rhythm guitar]] and vocals), [[Ace Frehley]] ([[lead guitar]] and vocals) and [[Peter Criss]] ([[Drum kit|drums]] and vocals) is the most successful and identifiable. With their makeup and costumes, they took on the personas of [[comic book]]-style characters—the Demon (Simmons), the Star Child (Stanley), the Space Ace (Frehley), and the Cat Man (Criss). Due to [[substance abuse]] problems and creative differences, both Criss and Frehley were out of the group by 1982. The band's commercial fortunes had also waned considerably by that point.
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In 1983, Kiss abandoned their makeup and enjoyed a commercial resurgence throughout the rest of the decade. Buoyed by a wave of Kiss [[nostalgia]] in the 1990s, the band announced a reunion of the original lineup (with makeup) in 1996. The resulting Kiss Alive/Worldwide Tour was the top-grossing act of 1996. Criss and Frehley have since left Kiss again, and have been replaced by [[Eric Singer]] and [[Tommy Thayer]], respectively. The band continues to perform, while Stanley and Simmons have remained the only two constant members.
==History=A===
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===Early years and struggles (1971–75)===
*'''[[Duane Allman]]''' ([[The Allman Brothers Band]])- used a 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAF pickups, a 1959 cherry sunburst Les Paul, a 1958 tobacco sunburst Les Paul and a 1968 cherry SG. A Les Paul was also his primary guitar when using a slide<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hotguitarist.com/music_artists/duane_allman.htm | date=2006 | accessdate=2006-11-20 | first=Julian | last=Fothergill | title=Duane Allman | work=Hotguitarist.com}}</ref>
Kiss traces its roots to [[Wicked Lester]], a [[New York City]]-based rock and roll band led by co-founders [[Gene Simmons]] (born Chaim Witz in [[Haifa]], [[Israel]] on [[August 25]], [[1949]]) and [[Paul Stanley]] (born Stanley Harvey Eisen in [[Queens]], New York City on [[January 20]], [[1952]]). Wicked Lester, with their eclectic mixture of musical styles, never achieved any success. They recorded one album, which was shelved by [[Epic Records]], and played a handful of live shows. Simmons and Stanley, feeling that a new musical direction was needed, abandoned Wicked Lester in 1972 and began forming a new group.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', pp. 14.</ref><ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 68-71.</ref><ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 20–21.</ref>
*'''[[Billie Joe Armstrong]]''' ([[Green Day]]) - Uses several vintage 1950's Les Paul Junior models, SG's, ES 335's, and a J-45. He also used a Les Paul Standard for recording the lead guitar parts on the album "American Idiot." Gibson has produced a Billie Joe Armstrong Signature Les Paul Junior model.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/Products/GibsonElectric/Gibson%20Electric%20Guitars/LesPaul/Billie%20Joe%20Armstrong%20Les%20Paul/ Gibson.com Billie Joe Armstrong Signature Model homepage]</ref>
*'''[[Chet Atkins]]''' - Switched from [[Gretsch]] to Gibson in the mid 1980s and brought with him the popular Country Gentlemen and Tennessean model designs. Atkins also helped to design several innovative acoustic/electric models including the SST.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
===B===
In late 1972, Simmons spotted an ad in ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' placed by [[Peter Criss]], a veteran [[drummer]] from the New York club scene. Criss (born Peter Criscuola on [[December 20]], [[1945]] in [[Brooklyn]], New York City) auditioned for and joined the new version of Wicked Lester. The trio focused on a much harder style of rock than Wicked Lester played. Inspired by the theatrics of the [[New York Dolls]], they also began experimenting with their image by wearing makeup and various outfits.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 33, 57–58.</ref> In November 1972, the trio played a showcase for Epic Records [[A&R]] director Don Ellis, in an effort to secure a record deal. Although the performance went well, Ellis hated the group's image and music. On top of that, as he was leaving, he was vomited on by Criss's brother.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 15.</ref><ref name="vomit">{{cite web |url=http://kissfaq.com/chronology/timeline.html |title=KISS Chronology/Timeline |accessdate=2007-01-20 |last=Gill |first=Julian}}</ref>
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[[Image:Beck Les Paul.jpg|thumb|right|160px|Jeff Beck with his Gibson Les Paul]]
In January 1973, the group added [[lead guitar|lead guitarist]] [[Ace Frehley|Paul "Ace" Frehley]] (born [[April 27]], [[1951]] in [[the Bronx]], New York City). The eccentric Frehley impressed the group with his first audition, although he showed up wearing two different sneakers (one red and one orange) and began warming up on his guitar while another guitarist ([[Bob Kulick]]) was being auditioned by the band. A few weeks after Frehley joined, the Wicked Lester name was dropped and the band became Kiss. Stanley came up with the name, and Frehley created the now-iconic logo (making the "SS" look like lightning bolts).<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 43.</ref> The letters happened to look similar to the insignia of the Nazi [[Schutzstaffel|SS]], or [[Waffen-SS]], a symbol that is now illegal to display in [[Germany]]. Therefore, in Germany, all of the band's album covers and merchandise used a modified version of the logo, in which the "SS" looks like a backwards "ZZ."
*'''[[Martin Barre]]''' ([[Jethro Tull (band)|Jethro Tull]]) has used numerous Gibson models over the course of his career including: a sunburst ES-330, a 1958 Les Paul Special and a 1959 Les Paul Standard.<ref>[http://www.martinbarre.com/gear.htm Equipment history from martinbarre.com]</ref>
*'''[[Jeff Beck]]''' - used a Les Paul Standard while a member of [[The Yardbirds]]. A different Les Paul Standard, purchased from Rick Neilson,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} was used while with the [[Jeff Beck Group]]. And an "Oxblood" coloured 1954 Les Paul Standard, with PAF pickups, from 1972-1976.
*'''[[Chuck Berry]]''' - used an ES-350T early in his career later switching to ES-345s and ES-355s.<ref>{{cite book |last=Chapman |first=Richard |title=Guitar, Music, History, Players |publisher=DK publishing |id=ISBN 0-7894-9700-X |pages=pg. 177, 178}}</ref>
*'''[[Dickey Betts]]''' ([[The Allman Brothers Band]]) - uses a variety of Gibson models including a 1961 SG and a 1957 Les Paul.
*'''[[Ritchie Blackmore]]''' - played an ES-335 but switched to a [[Fender Stratocaster]] after seeing [[Jimi Hendrix]] playing one in concert. Solo on [[Child in Time]] played with ES-335.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}
*'''[[Marc Bolan]]''' ([[T. Rex (band)|T. Rex]]) - used Les Paul Customs and Flying Vs and a Hummingbird. His main Les Paul model was refinished in a translucent amber finish to resemble the Gibson guitars played by his idol Duane Eddy.
*'''[[Mick Box]]''' ([[Uriah Heep (band)|Uriah Heep]]) - uses a Les Paul Custom. Also used a 1958 Les Paul Junior Double Cut, a Flying V and a 1968 SG with a Maestro tailpiece.
*'''[[Michelle Branch]]''' - uses a Hummingbird.<ref>http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1163535/bio Michelle Branch's biography. Includes what guitars are used in Trade mark section.</ref>
*'''[[Creed Bratton]]''' ([[The Grass Roots]]) - has used various Gibsons including recordings with a Black Beauty on early Grass Roots albums.
*'''[[Clarence Gatemouth Brown|Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown]]''' - has used various Gibsons including: ES-335s and L-5s. His main guitar was a late-60s non-reverse Firebird.
*'''[[Jack Bruce]]''' ([[Cream (band)|Cream]]) - used several EB-3 basses during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Used a 1950s-vintage EB bass during the 2005 Cream reunion concerts.
*'''[[Buckethead]]''' - uses 2 white customized Les Pauls and an SG.<ref>[http://www.bingeandgrab.com/bucketgear.html Buckethead's gear]</ref>
===C===
The band's name has been rumored to have many hidden meanings, among them an [[Acronym and initialism|acronym]] for "Knights In Satan's Service." The band has consistently denied this, stating that Paul Stanley simply chose the name on the spur of the moment.<ref name="simmons">Simmons, Gene (2001). ''KISS and Make-up''. Crown. ISBN 0-609-60855-X.</ref>
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
*'''[[Larry Carlton]]''' - uses a sunburst 1968 ES-335 along with occasional use of a 1956 Les Paul Special and a 1963 L5.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.larrycarlton.net/brandnew/equipment.shtml | date=2006 | accessdate=2006-12-02 | title=Larry Carlton equipment details from www.larrycarlton.net}}</ref> A Larry Carlton Signature Model has been produced by Gibson for the man they call ''"Mr ES-335"''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gibsoncustom.com/flash/products/signature/larrycarlton/LarryCarlton.html | date=2006 | accessdate=2006-11-21 | title=Larry Carlton Signature Model | work=Gibson Guitar Corporation}}</ref>
*'''[[Eric Clapton]]''' - used a Les Paul while with [[John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 123}}</ref> While with [[Cream (band)|Cream]], Clapton used a 1965 SG<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pgs. 134-135}}</ref> painted by [[The Netherlands|Dutch]] artists collectively known as [[The Fool (design collective)|The Fool]]. Also, while with Cream, Clapton used a cherry 1964 ES-355,<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 139}}</ref> a Les Paul Black Beauty and a Firebird I. A 1958 Explorer<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 129}}</ref> was used during recording for his [[461 Ocean Boulevard]] and ''EC Was Here'' albums. Clapton still makes occasional use of an ES-335 model during live performances.
*'''[[Steve Clark]]''' ([[Def Leppard]]) - used a Les Paul and a Firebird.
*'''[[Dennis Coffey]]''' ([[Motown]] Session guitarist) the veteran session guitarist owns several vintage Gibson models including an ES-335, an ES-345 and a Byrdland. Coffey, who appeared on virtually every Motown recording in the 1960s and 1970s, played a Firebird model which he purchased used in 1964. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.denniscoffeysite.com/guitars.html | date=2007 | accessdate=2007-05-02 | title=Dennis Coffey's Gibson collection}}</ref>
*'''[[Allen Collins]]''' ([[Lynyrd Skynyrd]]) - used a Firebird, and later switched to the Explorer. Starting in late 1977, he would also use a Gibson Les Paul occasionally.
*'''[[Sheryl Crow]]''' - uses a Country Western model, Hummingbird, L-00 Blues King, J-200 Western Classic, 96 Advanced Jumbo, 96 Southern Jumbo, J45, ES-120, ES-125, ES-335 and various Les Pauls.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/print_acoustic.aspx?aliaspath=/Products/Gibson Acoustic Guitars/Gibson Acoustic Guitars/Signature Artist Series/Sheryl Crow Signature Gibson.com]</ref>
*'''[[Rivers Cuomo]]''' ([[Weezer]]) - used a Les Paul Special for the majority of guitar work on early Weezer albums, and uses a Les Paul, an SG, a [http://www.weezer.com/info/equipment/pics/Rivers-12-01-newGibsons.jpg Flying V and an Explorer] onstage in late 2001 and throughout parts of 2002.
===D===
The first Kiss performance was on [[January 30]], [[1973]], for an audience of three at the Popcorn Club (renamed Coventry shortly afterward) in Queens. In June of that year, the band recorded a five-song [[demo (music)|demo]] tape with producer [[Eddie Kramer]]. Former TV director [[Bill Aucoin]], who had seen the group at a handful of showcase concerts in the summer of 1973, offered to become the band’s manager in mid-October. Kiss agreed, with the condition that Aucoin get them signed to a recording contract within two weeks. On [[November 1]], [[1973]], Kiss became the first act signed to former teen pop singer and Buddha Records executive [[Neil Bogart]]'s new label, Emerald City Records (which was shortly afterward renamed [[Casablanca Records]]).<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 145–146.</ref>
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[[Image:K.K._Downing.jpg|thumb|right|200px|K.K. Downing playing a Gibson Flying V]]
*'''[[Dave Davies]]''' ([[The Kinks]]) - has used numerous Gibson models over the years including: a 1958 Flying V (prototype model), a 1960 Goldtop Les Paul and a 1978 Artisan.<ref>[http://www.davedavies.com/guitars/guitars2.htm Davies' guitar history from his official website]</ref>
*'''[[Tom DeLonge]]''' ([[Angels and Airwaves]], [[Blink 182]]) - has a Signature model ES-335.
*'''[[Buck Dharma]]''' ([[Blue Öyster Cult]]) - uses a 1974 Les Paul Deluxe and a 1969 SG.
*'''[[K.K. Downing]]''' ([[Judas Priest]]) - used a Flying V and an SG.
*'''[[Bob Dylan]]''' - uses a variety of Gibson models including: a J-50, a J-200, a J-180 and a J-45.
===E===
The band entered Bell Sound Studios in New York City on [[October 10]], [[1973]] to begin recording their first album. On December 31 the band had their official industry premier at the [[Brooklyn Academy of Music|Academy of Music]] in New York City, opening for [[Blue Öyster Cult]]. It was at this concert that Simmons accidentally set his hair (which was coated in hairspray) ablaze for the first of many times while performing his inaugural firebreathing stunt.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 27.</ref>
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[[Image:Kiss first album cover.jpg|thumb|right|Kiss's [[KISS (album)|self-titled debut]] (1974) sold respectably, but was not the success the band or the label hoped for.]]
*'''[[Duane Eddy]]''' - "The King of Twang Guitar" has used many different Gibson models throughout his career. Gibson produces a ''Duane Eddy Signature Model''.<ref>[http://www.gibsoncustom.com/flash/products/signature/eddy/DuaneEddy.html Details on Duane Eddy's Signature Gibson model]</ref>
*'''[[Elliot Easton]]''' ([[The Cars]]) - used several Gibson SG models and a Les Paul Custom in the "Since You're Gone" video. Gibson currently produces an Elliot Easton signature model SG as part of their "Inspired By" series manufactured by the custom shop
*'''[[The Edge]]''' ([[U2]]) - uses several Gibson models including an Explorer,<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 94}}</ref> a Les Paul<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 94}}</ref> and an SG.
*'''[[John Entwistle]]''' ([[The Who]]) - used several Thunderbird IV basses during the early 1970s and later used custom-made Thunderbird models with [[Fender Precision Bass]] necks. Entwistle also used an EB-2 bass during the early days of The Who.
*'''[[Everly Brothers]]''' - J-200, Everly Brothers Model.
===F===
Kiss's first tour started on [[February 5]], [[1974]] in [[Edmonton]], [[Alberta]], [[Canada]], at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. The band’s self-titled debut album, ''[[KISS (album)|Kiss]]'', was released on [[February 18]]. Casablanca and Kiss promoted the album heavily throughout the [[Spring (season)|spring]] and [[summer]] of 1974. On [[February 19]], the band performed "Nothin' to Lose," "Firehouse," and "Black Diamond" for what would become their first national television appearance, on [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]]'s ''Dick Clark's In Concert'' (aired [[March 29]]). On [[April 29]], the band performed "Firehouse" on ''[[The Mike Douglas Show]]''. This broadcast included Simmons's first televised interview, a conversation with [[Mike Douglas|Douglas]] in which Simmons declared himself "evil incarnate," eliciting titters from an uncomfortable and largely confused studio audience.
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[[Image:Ace live.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Ace Frehley]]
*'''[[Don Felder]]''' ([[Eagles]]) - uses a Les Paul and an EDS-1275.
*'''[[Robin Finck]]''' ([[Nine Inch Nails]]/[[Guns N' Roses]]) - uses a variety of Les Paul models.
*'''[[John Fogerty]]''' ([[Creedence Clearwater Revival]] and a solo artist) - uses a variety of Les Paul models.
*'''[[Peter Frampton]]''' ([[Humble Pie]] and a solo artist) - uses a 3 pickup Les Paul Custom. Gibson has produced 2 completely different Signature models for him.
*'''[[Lars Frederiksen]]''' ([[Rancid (band)|Rancid]], [[Lars Frederiksen and the Bastards]]) - uses cherry sunburst SG Specials and a polaris white 1965 SG Special.
*'''[[Ace Frehley]]''' ([[Kiss (band)|Kiss]]) - used a 3 pickup Les Paul Custom as well as an Ace Frehley Signature Model<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/products/gibson/LesPaul/AceFrehley.html Frehley's signature Les Paul at Gibson.com]</ref> and an EDS-1275.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 6}}</ref> He also used a Les Paul Standard.
*'''[[John Frusciante]]''' ([[Red Hot Chili Peppers]]) - uses an SG for some songs, and has recently been seen live with a vintage black Les Paul Custom.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.redhotchilipeppersguide.com/john.php | title = John's guitars | accessdate = 2007-01-13| work = Red Hot Chili Peppers Guide}}</ref>
===G===
Despite the publicity and constant touring, ''Kiss'' initially sold just 75,000 copies. Meanwhile, the group and Casablanca Records were losing money quickly. The band flew to [[Los Angeles, California|Los Angeles]] in August 1974 to begin recording their second album, ''[[Hotter Than Hell]]'', which was released in on [[October 22]], [[1974]]. The only single, "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll," failed to chart and the album stalled at #100.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 140-141.</ref>
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*'''[[Steve Gaines]]''' ([[Lynyrd Skynyrd]]) - used a Les Paul.
*'''[[Noel Gallagher]]''' ([[Oasis (band)|Oasis]]) - uses a variety of Les Paul models, a cherry ES-355, a Firebird and a J-200.
*'''[[Jerry Garcia]]''' ([[Grateful Dead]]) - used a Les Paul Custom and an SG early in his career.
*'''[[Hank Garland]]''' (Nashville guitarist who worked with [[Elvis Presley]] among others) - used a "Byrdland" guitar
[[Image:Scottgorham.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Scott Gorham with his Les Paul]]
*'''[[Billy Gibbons]]''' ([[ZZ Top]]) - has used several different Gibson models over the course of his career including Goldtop Les Pauls, Flying Vs, Explorers, ES-5 Switchmasters and Les Paul Juniors. His main guitar is a 1959 Les Paul Standard nicknamed ''"Pearly Gates"''. ''"Pearly has such an unmistakable character that we felt it was necessary to find another instrument with a similar sound to use as a spare guitar. We accumulated dozens of guitars, but nothing quite matched her. But instead of tossing these other acquisitions away, they kept accumulating. It's an ongoing saga that never ends."''<ref> [http://www.guitarworld.com/allaccess/interviews/billy-gibbons-guitarodyssey.htm Gibbons describes his history of collecting guitars]</ref><ref>[http://www.guitarplayer.com/story.asp?storycode=15514 Billy Gibbons article from Guitar Player Magazine]</ref>
*'''[[David Gilmour]]''' ([[Pink Floyd]]) - known for playing [[Fender Stratocaster]], but used a 1956 Les Paul Goldtop with a Bigsby tailpiece on his solo albums and some later Pink Floyd work, including [[The Wall]] tour of 1980-81.
*'''[[Scott Gorham]]''' ([[Thin Lizzy]]) - used a Les Paul Standard and a Les Paul Deluxe with mini humbuckers.
*'''[[Barry Goudreau]]''' ([[Boston (band)|Boston]]) - uses an SG
*'''[[Peter Green (musician)|Peter Green]]''' - most notable for his 1959 Les Paul that had the pick-ups accidentally wired out of phase. The guitar used to be owned by [[Gary Moore]], but it was sold to a private owner in 2006.
*'''[[Dave Grohl]]''' ([[Foo Fighters]], [[Nirvana (band)|Nirvana]]) - uses many different Gibson models including: Explorers, SGs, ES-335s, Firebirds, and a 1970s Trini Lopez Standard.
===H===
With ''Hotter Than Hell'' quickly dropping off the charts, Kiss was pulled from their tour to quickly record a new album. Casablanca head Neil Bogart stepped in to produce the next album, trading in the murky, distorted sound of ''Hotter Than Hell'' for a cleaner and slightly poppier sound. ''[[Dressed to Kill (album)|Dressed To Kill]]'', released on [[March 19]], [[1975]], fared slightly better commercially than ''Hotter Than Hell''. It also contained what would later become the band's trademark song, "[[Rock and Roll All Nite]]" ({{audio-nohelp|KISS RockandRollAllNite.ogg|sample}}).
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
[[Image:Warren Haynes (2006).jpg|thumb|right|180px|Warren Haynes playing his Les Paul]]
*'''[[Steve Hackett]]''' ([[Genesis (band)|Genesis]],[[GTR]]) - uses numerous Les Paul models. His main guitar for many years was a 1957 Goldtop. He had other Les Paul models fitted with a Fernandes Sustainer.
*'''[[Kirk Hammett]]''' ([[Metallica]]) uses a Flying V and a variety of Les Paul models.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts|first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time!|publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 7}}</ref>
*'''[[Emmylou Harris]]''' - uses a Dove, a variety of J-200's and a J-200 Western Classic.
*'''[[George Harrison]]''' - used a Les Paul Standard, SG Standard, ES-345-TD, J-160E and a J-200.
*'''[[Warren Haynes]]''' (''[[Gov't Mule]]'') - uses a Les Paul Custom, Les Paul Standard, an ES-335 and a non-reverse Firebird.
*'''[[Justin Hayward]]''' (''[[The Moody Blues]]'') - has used an ES-335 for his entire career.
*'''[[Jimi Hendrix]]''' ([[The Jimi Hendrix Experience]]) - while generally regarded as an iconic [[Stratocaster]] player, Jimi used several Gibson models including an SG Custom, Flying V, Les Paul Special and a Les Paul Custom. Gibson also gave him two guitars in 1970, a custom Flying V and an ES-345. Both of these guitars were left handed models. Gibson has released a Flying V model replicating his 1967 Flying V including the psychedelic floral design which Hendrix himself had hand painted on the original.
*'''[[James Hetfield]]''' ([[Metallica]]) - used a white Explorer and also a Les Paul Custom.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts|first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time!|publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 7}}</ref>
*'''[[Joshua Homme]]''' (''[[Kyuss]]''), (''[[Queens of the Stone Age]]'') - used a cream coloured SG and a Les Paul on the [[Blues for the Red Sun]] tour.<ref>[http://www.scottreeder.com/gallery/01/palm_springs_party_in_92.jpg]</ref> Also used the SG on tour with the [[Screaming Trees]].<ref>[http://www.circleswithin.com/benpage/curt-e5.jpg]</ref>
*'''[[Steve Howe (guitarist)|Steve Howe]]''' ([[Yes (band)|Yes]], [[Asia (band)|Asia]], [[GTR (band)|GTR]]) - uses an ES-175.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 76}}</ref> and the EDS-1275.
===I===
Although Kiss albums had not proven to be big sellers, the band was quickly gaining a reputation as a top-flight live act. Kiss concerts featured things such as Simmons spitting "blood" (primarily yogurt and food coloring) or "breathing fire" (spitting flammable liquid at a torch); Frehley soloing as his guitar burst into flames (light and smoke bombs placed inside the guitar); Criss's elevating drum riser that emitted sparks; Stanley's [[Pete Townshend|Townshend]]-style guitar smashing; and pyrotechnics throughout the show.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 62–64.</ref>
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*'''[[Tony Iommi]]''' ([[Black Sabbath]])- has used an SG throughout most of his career but also owns other Gibson models. Currently his collection includes: a rare ''"Barney Kessel"'' left-handed model,<ref>[http://www.iommi.com/equipment/gibson_barney_kessel.htm technical details for Iommi's Barney Kessel model]</ref> a red SG nicknamed ''"monkey"'',<ref>[http://www.iommi.com/equipment/gibson_red_sg_aka_monkey.htm technical details for Iommi's "monkey" SG]</ref> a red Gibson Custom Shop SG,<ref>[http://www.iommi.com/equipment/gibson_red_custom_shop_sg.htm technical details for Iommi's red Custom Shop SG]</ref> a black Gibson Custom Shop SG<ref>[http://www.iommi.com/equipment/gibson_black_custom_shop_sg.htm technical details for Iommi's black Custom Shop SG]</ref> and a black SG Standard<ref>[http://www.iommi.com/equipment/gibson_black_sg_standard.htm technical details for Iommi's black SG standard.</ref> Gibson has produced a Tony Iommi Signature SG.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/products/gibson/sg/iommisg.html technical details for Iommi's Signature Model SG]</ref>
===J===
By late 1975, Casablanca was nearly bankrupt and Kiss was in danger of losing their record contract. Both parties desperately needed a commercial breakthrough if they were to survive. That breakthrough came in an unlikely form - a double live album.
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*'''[[Eric Johnson]]''' - used an ES-335 for the recorded version of [[Cliffs of Dover (song)|"Cliffs of Dover"]]. Also uses the ES-335 during live performances.
*'''[[Robert Johnson (musician)|Robert Johnson]]''' used an L-1 acoustic.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 58}}</ref> A Robert Johnson Signature Model is also available.
*'''[[Adam Jones]]''' ([[Tool (band)|Tool]]) - uses a Les Paul Custom with a ''"Silverburst"'' finish.
*'''[[Brian Jones (musician)|Brian Jones]]''' ([[The Rolling Stones]]) - used an ES-330, a 1956 Les Paul Goldtop and various Firebirds both reverse and non-reverse.
*'''[[Mick Jones (The Clash)|Mick Jones]]''' ([[The Clash]], [[Big Audio Dynamite]], [[Carbon/Silicon]])) - used Les Paul, now mostly uses Les Paul Junior Double Cut
*'''[[Steve Jones (musician)|Steve Jones]]''' ([[Sex Pistols]]) - uses a Les Paul.
===Success (1975–78)K===
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[[Image:Kiss alive album cover.jpg|right|thumb|''Alive!'' (1975) was the band's breakthrough album]]
*'''[[Albert King]]''' - a left-handed "upside-down/backwards" guitarist: he was left-handed but usually played a Flying V flipped over upside-down so the low E string was on the bottom.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 34}}</ref>
Kiss wanted to express the excitement felt at their concerts (which their studio albums had so far failed to do), with their first live album. Released on [[September 10]], [[1975]], ''[[Alive! (album)|Alive!]]'', achieved [[Music recording sales certification|quadruple platinum]] status, and spawned Kiss's first top 40 single, a live version of "Rock And Roll All Nite." It was the first version of "Rock and Roll All Nite" with a guitar solo, and this recording has come to represent the definitive version of the song; supplanting the studio original. In recent years the band admitted that additional audience noise had been added to the album, not to deceive fans, but to add more "excitement and realism" to the show.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 169-172.</ref>
[[Image:Pkossoff.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Paul Kossoff of Free with his Les Paul]]
*'''[[B. B. King]]''' - has used many different Gibson models including: an ES-5 and an ES-175 early in his career. Later he would use several thinline semi-acoustic models such as: an ES-330, ES-335, ES-345. King's Signature ES-355, nicknamed Lucille, has been his main guitar for many years.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 35}}</ref>
*'''[[Freddie King]]'''* - used a Goldtop Les Paul with P-90 pickups. Also used an ES-355 in some live performances.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 36}}</ref>
*'''[[Mark Knopfler]]''' ([[Dire Straits]] and solo) - uses original 1958 and 1959 Les Paul models. He also uses ES-335 and Super 400s.
*'''[[Erkin Koray]]''' - uses a 1961 Les Paul Custom.
*'''[[Paul Kossoff]]''' ([[Free (band)|Free]]) - "Kossoff was a passionate Les Paul player able to say in a few notes what many would dozens attempting."<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=50 Years of the Gibson Les Paul |publisher=Backbeat Books |id=ISBN 0-87930-711-0 |pages=pg. 67}}</ref> Kossoff used several late-50s Les Paul models as well as an ES-335 for occasional studio use.
*'''[[Robby Krieger]]''' ([[The Doors]]) - uses an SG, an ES-335 and a Melody Maker.
*'''[[Lenny Kravitz]]''' - uses a Flying V, a Les Paul and a white SG Custom.
===L===
The success of ''Alive!'' not only brought Kiss the breakthrough they had been seeking, but arguably saved Casablanca, which was close to [[bankruptcy]]. Following this success, Kiss partnered with producer [[Bob Ezrin]], who had previously worked with [[Alice Cooper]]. The result was ''[[Destroyer (album)|Destroyer]]'' (released [[March 15]], [[1976]]), Kiss's most musically ambitious studio album to date. ''Destroyer'', with its rather intricate production (utilizing an orchestra, choir, and numerous tape effects), was a departure from the rawer sound of the first three studio albums. While the album sold well initially and became the group's second gold album, it quickly dropped down the charts. Only when the ballad "[[Beth (song)|Beth]]" ({{audio-nohelp|KISS Beth.ogg|sample}}) was released as a single did the album's sales rebound. "Beth" was a #7 hit for the band, and its success revived both the album (which achieved [[RIAA certification|platinum]] status by the end of 1976) and ticket sales for Kiss.
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*'''[[Albert Lee]]''' - uses a Les Paul Custom, a J-200 and Everly Brothers Model.
*'''[[Alvin Lee]]''' ([[Ten Years After]]) - used a customized ES-335 nicknamed "Big Red". The Gibson Custom shop now produces a reissue of Lee's guitar.
*'''[[John Lennon]]''' - used a J-160E extensively while with the Beatles. Lennon also used a Les Paul Special and a modified Les Paul Junior.<ref>[http://www.acousticguitar.com/article/148/148,6300,FEATURE-1.asp What They Play - by Jeffery Pepper Rodgers]</ref><ref>[http://www.lennon.net/memorabilia/specialguitar.shtml detail on Lennon's Les Paul Special]</ref>
*'''[[Alex Lifeson]]''' ([[Rush (band)|Rush]]) - Has used many different Gibson models over the course of his career including: a sunburst ES-335, a black ES-345, a white ES-355, a white EDS-1275, a cherry SG, a sunburst Howard Roberts Fusion III, a variety of Les Paul models and a J-150 acoustic.<ref>[http://www.rusharchives.com/gear/alex.shtml Rush Gear and Gizmos: Alex Lifeson]</ref><ref>[http://www.gibson.com/whatsnew/pressrelease/2002/aug16a.html Lifeson Rush(es) Gibson USA]</ref>
*'''[[Steve Lukather]]''' - owns many guitar models; has an original 1959 Les Paul. Seen in many videos/interviews.<ref>[http://www.vintageguitar.com/artists/details.asp?ID=98]</ref>
===M===
In October 1976, Kiss appeared on the ''The Paul Lynde Halloween Special'', lip-synching "Detroit Rock City," "Beth," and "King of the Night Time World." For many teenagers, this was their first exposure to Kiss's dramatic appearance. The show was co-produced by Bill Aucoin. In addition to the three performances, Kiss was the subject of a brief comedic "interview" conducted by [[Paul Lynde]] himself. This included Lynde noting, when hearing the member's first names, "Oh, I love a good religious group."
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*'''[[Daron Malakian]]''' ([[System of a Down]]) - Used to play a black Les Paul Standard, now uses a cherry red SG standard (can be seen in the video for [[B.Y.O.B.]]), a cherry red vintage SG (played live on numerous occasions), and a cream white vintage SG (which can be seen in the video for [[Hypnotize]]).
[[Image:Kiss comic.gif||thumb||150px||left||A 1977 comic book published by [[Marvel Comics]] showcased Kiss as superheroes.]]
*'''[[Phil Manzanera]]''' ([[Roxy Music]]) used a Firebird VII.
Two more highly successful studio albums were released in less than a year—''[[Rock and Roll Over]]'' ([[November 11]], [[1976]]) and ''[[Love Gun]]'' ([[June 30]], [[1977]]). A second live album, ''[[Alive II]]'', was released on [[November 29]], [[1977]]. All three albums were certified platinum upon or soon after their release. Between 1976 and 1978, Kiss earned $17.7 million from record royalties and music publishing.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 65–66.</ref> A 1977 [[Gallup poll]] named Kiss the most popular band in America. In [[Japan]], Kiss performed five sold-out shows at [[Nippon Budokan|Budokan Hall]], breaking the previous record of four held by [[The Beatles]].
*'''[[Bob Marley]]''' ([[Bob Marley and The Wailers]]) - used a Les Paul Custom. The guitar is buried with him in his mausoleum.
*'''[[Johnny Marr]]''' ([[The Smiths]]/solo) - uses a large variety of Gibson guitars including the famous cherry red ES-335, various Les Pauls, and, recently, the SG standard.
*'''[[Jeff Martin (Canadian musician)|Jeff Martin]]''' ([[The Tea Party]]/solo) - uses a 1964 J-50, a Les Paul Classic 1960 reissue, an EDS-1275 and an Explorer.
*'''[[Pat Martino]]''' - uses a Signature Model.<ref>[http://www.patmartino.com/guitars.htm Pat Martino's website]</ref>
*'''[[Dave Mason]]''' - used a Firebird throughout the 1970s.
[[image:Paul McCartney on stage in Prague.jpg|180px|right|thumb|[[Paul McCartney]] playing a 1960 left handed sunburst Les Paul]]
*'''[[Paul McCartney]]''' - owns a rare left-handed 1957 Les Paul Goldtop<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 118}}</ref> Like many players, McCartney has replaced the fragile original tuning machines with a more modern sturdy set.<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=50 Years of the Gibson Les Paul |publisher=Backbeat Books |id=ISBN 0-87930-711-0 |pages=pg. 27}}</ref> and uses a left handed 1960 Les Paul Standard (1 of 3 known examples) as his main stage guitar.<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 127}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=50 Years of the Gibson Les Paul |publisher=Backbeat Books |id=ISBN 0-87930-711-0 |pages=pg. 46-47}}</ref> McCartney also uses a C-5 in the studio.
*'''[[Mike McCready]]''' ([[Pearl Jam]]) - uses a Les Paul, an SG, an ES-335 and a Flying V.
*'''[[Jimmy McCulloch]]''' ([[Wings (band)|Wings]]) - used an SG,a Les Paul and EDS 1275.
*'''[[John McLaughlin (musician)|John McLaughlin]]''' - has used many different models over the years, including:Les Pauls, an EDS-1275, ES-335s, Byrdlands, a sunburst dual-pickup Johnny Smith model, an ES-345 as well as Hummingbird acoustics.
*'''[[Ralph McTell]]''' - uses a J-45 acoustic.
*'''[[Pat Metheny]]''' - uses a humbucker-equipped ES-175, both live and on many of his mainstream jazz recordings. Has used a Les Paul on occasion, notably on ''[[Zero Tolerance for Silence]]''.
*'''[[Gary Moore]]''' ([[Thin Lizzy]]/[[Skid Row (blues-rock band)|Skid Row]]/solo) - uses a Les Paul Standard. Previously had a Les Paul Signature Model. Regularly uses a 1959 Les Paul Standard once owned by [[Peter Green (musician)|Peter Green]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 124}}</ref> Also used a white Explorer in the 2003 DVD release "Gary Moore: Live at Monsters of Rock".
*'''[[Scotty Moore]]''' (Elvis Presley's original lead guitarist) - While with Presley, Moore initially played an ES-295, before switching to an L5 and subsequently a Super 400.
*'''[[Wes Montgomery]]''' - used an ES-175 early in his career as well as an L-5CESs.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 72}}</ref>Gibson currently produces a Wes Montgomery Signature Model L-5CES.
*'''[[Tom Morello]]''' ([[Rage Against the Machine]]/[[Audioslave]]) - Uses a number of new Les Paul standards. The latest album "Revelations" was recorded with a Les Paul emblazoned with the Budwieser logo, which Morello removed with lighter fluid and wire wool while on Audioslave's 2005 tour. Fitted with DiMarzio pickups, this has now become his main guitar. Also uses a EDS-1275 in live performances of the Ghost of Tom Joad while with Rage Against the Machine{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
===N===
The first of what is now many Kiss [[greatest hits]] albums, ''[[Double Platinum (album)|Double Platinum]]'', was issued on [[April 2]], [[1978]]. This double album included many remixed versions of their hits, as well as "Strutter '78," a re-recorded version of one of the group's signature songs. Per Neil Bogart's request, the song was played in a style similar to the then-popular [[disco]] music.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 272-273.</ref>
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*'''[[Mike Ness]]''' ([[Social Distortion]]) - uses a 1975 Les Paul Gold Top Deluxe with [[P-90]] pickups<ref>{{cite web | url=http://harpmagazine.com/articles/detail.cfm?article_id=2580 | date=2005 | accessdate=2007-02-09 | first=Timothy | last=Davis | title=Mike Ness: Love Hurts | work=harpmagazine.com}}</ref>
*'''[[Jimmy Nolen]]''' ([[The J.B.'s]]) - used various Gibson models.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 113}}</ref>
*'''[[Ted Nugent]]''' - uses a Byrdland and a Les Paul. Gibson has developed a Signature Byrdland model.
===O===
During this period, Kiss merchandise became a substantial source of income for the group. Some of the products released included a pair of comic books issued by [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] (the first one of which contained ink mixed with actual blood donated by the group), a [[pinball]] machine, Kiss dolls, "Kiss Your Face Makeup" kits, [[Halloween]] masks, board games, and many other pieces of memorabilia. Membership in the [[Kiss Army]], the band's fan club, was in the six figures. Between 1977 and 1979, worldwide merchandise sales (in-store and on tour) reached an estimated $100 million.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 162.</ref>
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*'''[[Mike Oldfield]]''' - used a L-6S around 1978, various Les Paul models and a SG Junior, which featured on many of his albums in the seventies and eighties.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://tubular.net/articles/78_xx.shtml | title = Tubular Net | accessdate = 2007-03-19 | date = [[1978]] | work = Guitar Player - Mike Oldfield: A Rare Interview With The English Guitarist, Studio Wizard, and Composer of "Tubular Bells"| quote = Well, I've got a Gibson L-6 electric and my old Telecaster. [...] I also play my Les Paul Jr. It's old--from the mid-50's - and it's my main instrument.}}</ref>
*'''[[Roy Orbison]]''' - used an ES-335. Also used a Les Paul (with a Bigsby tailpiece).
*'''[[Buzz Osborne]]''' ([[The Melvins]]/[[Fantômas (band)|Fantômas]]/[[Venomous Concept]]) - used various Les Paul models throughout his career.<ref>[http://www.themelvins.net/gear.html The Melvins gear list]</ref>
*'''[[Ed O'Brien]]''' ([[Radiohead]]) - uses an ES-330 TD and an ES-335. Also uses a Les Paul.<ref>[http://www.sigur-ros.it/franz/RHG/Ed/edguitars.html Ed O'Brien gear list]</ref>
===Going solo (1978)P===
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
Kiss were at their commercial peak by 1978—''Alive II'' was the band's fourth platinum album in just under two years, and the ensuing tour had the highest average attendance (13,550) in the group's history. In addition, Kiss's gross income for 1977 was US$10.2 million. The group, along with creative manager Bill Aucoin, sought to take the band to the next level of popularity. To that end, an ambitious, two-pronged strategy was devised for 1978.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 88–89.</ref>
[[Image:Lespaul.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Les Paul playing a custom Les Paul]]
*'''[[Jimmy Page]]''' ([[Led Zeppelin]]/solo) - uses a 1958 Les Paul Standard (''"Number 1"''), a 1959 Les Paul Standard (''"Number 2"'', a gift from [[Joe Walsh]]),<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=Electric Guitars:The Illustrated Encyclopedia |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |id=ISBN 978-1-59223-053-2 |pages=pg. 121}}</ref> a 1973 Les Paul Standard, an EDS-1275, a 1977 RD Artist, an ES5 Switchmaster, a Goldtop Premium Les Paul and a 1991 Custom Shop Les Paul (built to be an exact replica of ''"Number 1"'' and re-nicknamed ''"Number 3"''). Page also owned a modified 1960 Les Paul Custom "Black Beauty" with a Bigsby Tailpiece and a 3-pickup configuration, a gift from [[Keith Richards]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/ledzeppelinorg1/images/gear/GibsonLPBlackBeauty3.jpg | accessdate=2006-11-25 | title=Page's Black Beauty | work=Jimmy Page pictured with his "Black Beauty" Les Paul}}</ref> This guitar was stolen in 1970 and never recovered.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/ledzeppelinorg1/images/gear/BB_missing_guitar_ad.jpg | accessdate=2006-11-25 | title=Stolen guitar ad | work=Picture showing ad in Rolling Stone magazine reporting Page's stolen guitar}}</ref> For acoustics Page used a Hummingbird, a J-200 and an A-2 mandolin. Gibson has released a Jimmy Page Signature Model Les Paul Les Paul replicating the features of ''"Number 2"''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.led-zeppelin.org/reference/gear/index.php?m=jimmy-early-days | accessdate=2006-11-25 | title=Page's early Gibson use | work=Details of Page's early guitar use}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.led-zeppelin.org/reference/gear/index.php?m=jimmy-led-zeppelin | accessdate=2006-11-25 | title=Page's 1970s gear | work=Details of Page's guitars during his Led Zeppelin years}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.led-zeppelin.org/reference/gear/index.php?m=jimmy-1980-present | accessdate=2006-11-25 | title=Page:1980 - Present | work=Details of Page's guitars from 1980 to present}}</ref>
*'''[[Joe Pass]]''' - used a sunburst ES-175; Epiphone currently produces a Joe Pass signature Emperor model.
*'''[[Les Paul|Les Paul (Lester William Polfus)]] - helped design the guitar named after him, uses a custom model.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 59}}</ref>
*'''[[Joe Perry (musician)|Joe Perry]]''' ([[Aerosmith]]) - has used many Gibson models over the years, including ES-335's, Les Pauls, Flying Vs, and Firebirds; has signature Gibson<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/products/gibson/LesPaul/JoePerry.html Perry's signature Les Paul at Gibson.com]</ref>and Epiphone Les Paul models nicknamed ''Boneyard''.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/Gifting2005/Joe%20Perry 'Boneyard' at Gibson.com]</ref>
*'''[[Al Pitrelli]]''' ([[Megadeth]], [[Savatage]]) uses Les Paul and Explorer models, with [[Seymour Duncan]] JB Jr. pickups.
*'''[[Andy Powell]]''' ([[Wishbone Ash]]) - used a Flying V for his entire career. Powell also occasionally used an SG while touring.
*'''[[John Prine]]''' uses a J-200.
===Q===
The first part involved the simultaneous release of four solo albums from the members of Kiss. Although Kiss has claimed that the solo albums were intended to ease rising tensions within the band, their 1976 record contract did in fact call for four solo records, with each of them counting as half an album toward the group's five-record commitment.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', p. 271.</ref> While each album was very much a solo effort (none of the group appeared on another's album), they were all released and marketed as Kiss albums (with similar cover art and poster inserts). It was the first time that all current members of a rock band had released solo albums at the same time.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 92.</ref>
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===R===
For the band members, it was a chance to showcase their individual musical styles and tastes outside of Kiss, and in some cases to collaborate with contemporary artists (Simmons's album featured appearances by the likes of [[Aerosmith]]'s [[Joe Perry (musician)|Joe Perry]], [[Cheap Trick]]'s [[Rick Nielsen]], disco diva [[Donna Summer]], and then-girlfriend [[Cher]]). Stanley's and Frehley's albums stuck pretty closely to the successful hard rock style that Kiss had utilized, while Criss's album featured an [[R&B]] style and was loaded with ballads. Simmons's was the most eclectic of the four—it featured hard rock, ballads, [[Beatles]]-influenced pop, and ended with a straight [[cover version|cover]] of "[[When You Wish upon a Star]]" (from the movie ''[[Pinocchio (1940 film)|Pinocchio]]'').
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[[Image:Kiss-solo-albums.jpg|thumb|Released simultaneously, the four Kiss solo albums signaled the beginning of the group's commercial decline.]]
[[Image:Mick Ralphs.png|thumb|right|160px|Mick Ralphs playing his Les Paul]]
The Kiss solo albums were released on [[September 18]], [[1978]]. The marketing blitz behind the albums was unprecedented—Casablanca announced it was shipping five million total copies of the albums (guaranteeing instant platinum status), and they spent US$2.5 million marketing them.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 94.</ref> Despite all four solo albums making it into the Top 50 of the ''[[Billboard magazine|Billboard]]'' album chart, the massive preorder for these albums was soon followed by an equally enormous attempt to ship them back to the record company, followed by the subsequent discounting of these albums once sales had (very quickly) peaked. The albums were also the first Kiss albums to be seen in the "bargain bins" of many record stores, and it was the first clear harbinger of Kiss's waning popularity. All four solo albums combined sold about as many copies as ''Love Gun'' alone. Of the four, Frehley's album was the most successful (although not by a huge margin) and spawned the only radio top 20 hit (Russ Ballard's composition "[[New York Groove]]").<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 95.</ref>
*'''[[Mick Ralphs]]'''([[Bad Company]]/[[Mott the Hoople]]) - used a Les Paul Junior, a Firebird and a Les Paul during his Mott the Hoople tenure. Used a Les Paul Standard and a Flying V during his years with Bad Company. Currently uses Les Paul Custom Shop '58 & '59 Re-issue models.
*'''[[Randy Rhoads]]''' ([[Quiet Riot]]/[[Ozzy Osbourne]]) - used a Les Paul Custom.
*'''[[Keith Richards]]''' ([[The Rolling Stones]]) - used Les Pauls, Flying Vs and Firebirds in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Currently uses ES-355s, Les Paul Juniors and a Les Paul Standard. Also uses Hummingbird and J-200.
*'''[[Howard Roberts]]''' - used several Gibson models over the course of his career including: an ES-175, an L-10<ref>[http://www.utstat.utoronto.ca/mikevans/hroberts/guitars/guitars.html details of Howard Roberts personal guitar equipment]</ref> and a heavily modified ES-150 simply known as "The Black Guitar".<ref>[http://www.utstat.utoronto.ca/mikevans/hroberts/guitars/black.html detailed specifications and notes on Howard Roberts' "Black Guitar"]</ref> Gibson produces a signature model ''Howard Roberts Fusion III'' which is a variation of an ES-165.
*'''[[Brian Robertson]]''' ([[Thin Lizzy]]/[[Motorhead]]) - has used a Les Paul throughout his entire career.
*'''[[Rich Robinson]]''' ([[The Black Crowes]]) - uses several different Gibson electric models including: a 1968 Les Paul Goldtop, a 1964 ES-335, a Customshop Flametop Les Paul and a Dove.<ref>[http://www.richrobinson.net/gear.php Rich Robinson Equipment list]</ref>
*'''[[Mick Ronson]]''' ([[David Bowie]]) - used a Les Paul Custom, with the finish stripped, for his guitar work on [[Ziggy Stardust]] and [[Aladdin Sane]], among others.
*'''[[Gary Rossington]]''' ([[Lynyrd Skynyrd]]) - uses Les Pauls and SGs. Previously had a Signature Model Les Paul and SG released by Gibson.
===S===
The second part of Kiss's and Aucoin's plan called for the band to appear in a movie that would cement their image as larger than life superheroes. Filming for the movie commenced in the spring of 1978. Although the project was proposed to the band as a cross between ''[[A Hard Day's Night (film)|A Hard Day's Night]]'' and ''[[Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope|Star Wars]]'', the final results fell far short of those expectations. The script underwent numerous rewrites, and the band (particularly Criss and Frehley) grew increasingly frustrated with the film making process. Criss refused to take part in post-production, and so his entire voice track was completely over-dubbed by another actor.<ref name="catman">Albanese, Ron. [[March 5]] [[2002]]. [http://ronalbanese.com/articles/118.shtml "Easy Catman, They are Serious: The Complete Guide to Kiss Meets the Phantom"] RonAlbanese.com. Retrieved [[June 30]] [[2006]].</ref>
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[[Image:SaulHudson.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Slash playing a black Les Paul live in concert, 2005]]
*'''[[Carlos Santana]]''' used an SG onstage at Woodstock. He also played and advertised a L-6S in the 1970s.<ref>Bacon, T. "The Ultimate Guitar Book" p. 89 Dorling Kindersley Limited, 1991 ISBN 0-86318-640-8</ref> Santana has also used sunburst Les Paul Custom.
*'''[[Michael Schenker]]''' ([[Scorpions (band)|Scorpions]]/[[UFO (band)|UFO]]/[[Michael Schenker Group]])- used four different 1970s Flying V models. Number 1 was a modified 1975. Numbers 2 and 3 were 1979 block inlay Flying Vs. And Number 4 was a mid 1970s white Flying V, formerly owned by Leon Lawson. Numbers 1, 2 and 3 had Schenker's trademark "half black/half white" paint scheme.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}
*'''[[Rudolph Schenker]]''' ([[Scorpions (band)|Scorpions]])- uses various Flying V models dating from 1958-2001. He uses 3 1958 original Flying Vs, 3 1967-1969 Flying Vs, 2 1971 Medallions (one was repainted black & white), 1 1975 natural finish Flying V, 3 1983 replicas of the 1958 originals, 4 1980 models and 2 1984 Rudolf Schenker Signature Models. Schenker has over 70 vintage and collectible Flying Vs along with several Custom Shop limited editions including a doubleneck Flying V model.[http://www.flyingvintage.com/gcmag/RudolfSchenker.html]
*'''[[Tom Scholz]]''' ([[Boston (band)|Boston]]}- uses a 1968 Les Paul Goldtop with a DiMarzio SuperDistorion pickup in the bridge
*'''[[Neal Schon]]''' ([[Journey (band)|Journey]]) - uses a heavily modified Les Paul, including a Floyd Rose locking tremolo, custom electronics and sustainer unit.
*'''[[Gene Simmons]]''' ([[Kiss (band)|Kiss]]) - used a G3.
*'''[[Nikki Sixx]]''' ([[Mötley Crüe]]) Has used a number of [[Gibson Thunderbird|Thunderbird]] basses throughout his career. Between 2000 and 2003 Gibson manufactured a Sixx signature bass, the 'Blackbird'.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/products/gibson/bass/nikkisixxbass.html 'Blackbird' details from Gibson.com]</ref>
*'''[[Slash (musician)|Slash]]''' ([[Guns N' Roses]]/[[Slash's Snakepit]]/[[Velvet Revolver]]/[[Slash's Blues Ball]]) - uses many different Les Paul models. Has also used an EDS-1275.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts|first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time!|publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 10}}</ref>
*'''[[Adrian Smith]]''' ([[Iron Maiden]]) - used a Les Paul, an SG and an Explorer.
*'''[[Elliott Smith]]''' played 2 Gibson es-330’s, one pre-1969 red ES-330 and a ‘69 or later sunburst ES-330 as well as an old Gibson 60’s j-45.
*'''[[Johnny Smith]]''' was a Gibson endorsee from 1961 to 1989, during which time Gibson sold the Johnny Smith model.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 73}}</ref> Smith switched to [[Heritage Guitars|Heritage]] in 1989. Gibson continues to produce the design as the LeGrande.
*'''[[Bill Spooner]]''' ([[The Tubes (band)|The Tubes]]) - used a Flying V and Explorer primarily, a Les Paul, SG and a 1957 Melody Maker.
*'''[[Paul Stanley]]''' ([[Kiss (band)|Kiss]]) - used a Flying V, an Explorer, a Firebird and an L6-S.
*'''[[Steve Stevens]]''' ([[Billy Idol]]) - Uses various Gibson Les Paul's.
*'''[[Stompin' Tom Connors]]''' - used an SJ200 (purchased from a furniture store for $80) from 1956 to 1972, and still owns to this day.<ref>{{cite book | first = Stompin' Tom | last = Connors | title = Stompin' Tom - Before the Fame | ___location = Toronto | publisher = Viking Penguin | year = 1995 | pages = 356-379 | id = ISBN 0-670-86487-0 }}</ref>
*'''[[Hubert Sumlin]]''' - used a 1956 Les Paul Goldtop for many years. Currently uses various Les Pauls and ES-335s.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 37}}</ref>
*'''[[John Sykes]]''' ([[Thin Lizzy]]/[[Whitesnake]]/[[Blue Murder]]) - uses a 1978 Les Paul Custom. Gibson has released a Custom Shop version of this guitar.
*'''[[Sylvain Sylvain]]''' ([[New York Dolls]]) - used a Les Paul Standard.
===T===
''[[Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park]]'', produced by [[Hanna-Barbera]], aired on [[NBC]] on [[October 28]], [[1978]]. Despite scathing reviews, it was one of the highest-rated TV movies of the year, and saw theatrical release outside the U.S. in 1979 under the title ''Attack of the Phantoms''. While later interviews with band members would have them talk about their movie making experience with a mix of humorous embarrassment and regret as to the finished product, their unhappiness with the final product was well-known to those around them. They felt that the movie ended up portraying them more as clowns than superheroes. The artistic failure of the movie led to a rift between the band and Aucoin, whom they blamed for it.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 91–92.</ref>
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[[Image:Mictaylor.jpg|thumb|right|160px|Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones with his Les Paul]]
*'''[[Mick Taylor]]''' ([[The Rolling Stones]])- used various Les Paul and SG models. Also made occasional use of a Firebird. His first Les Paul was bought (from Selmer's, London in 1965) when he was playing with ''The Gods''.{{Fact|date=March 2007}} He acquired his second Les Paul in 1967 while playing with The Bluesbreakers. The guitar was sold to him by Keith Richards at Olympic Studios. This 1959 Les Paul with Bigsby tailpiece was stolen in the South of France in 1971 during the recording of Exile on Main Street.{{Fact|date=March 2007}} On the 1972/1973 Rolling Stones tours Taylor used a sunburst Les Paul without a Bigsby.{{Fact|date=March 2007}}
*'''[[Rosetta Tharpe]]''' - used 1961 double cutaway Les Paul Custom
*'''[[George Thorogood]]''' - uses an ES-125
*'''[[Johnny Thunders]]''' - used Les Paul Juniors.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 104, 105}}</ref>
*'''[[Pete Townshend]]''' ([[The Who]]/solo) - used an SG Special from 1967-1972 and various customized Les Paul models from 1973-1979. Also used an EDS-1275. Has consistently used SJ-200 acoustic guitars. Gibson produced a Townshend Signature Model SG based on the guitar he played on at [[Woodstock Festival|Woodstock]] in 1969. It was a limited edition and discontinued in 2003.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/products/gibson/sg/townshendsg.html Technical details for the Pete Townshend Signature model from Gibson.com]</ref> In 2006 the Gibson Custom Shop started production of 3 different Les Paul Signature Models<ref>[http://www.gibsoncustom.com/flash/products/signature/list_solid.html Gibson's Signature Solidbody Home Page featuring the 3 Pete Townshend Les Paul Deluxe Models]</ref> based on the guitars he played in the late 1970s.
*'''[[Pat Travers]]''' ([[Pat Travers Band]]) - uses a Les Paul Junior. Also uses a Les Paul double cutaway. <ref>[http://www.pattravers.com/pt/pt_pix/pt_pix2004.htm]</ref>
*'''[[Derek Trucks]]''' ([[The Allman Brothers Band]]/[[The Derek Trucks Band]]) - uses an SG.
*'''[[Nigel Tufnel]]''' ([[Spinal Tap (band)|Spinal Tap]]) - uses a Les Paul in the movie [[This is Spinal Tap]].
===U===
===Late makeup years and decline (1979–83)===
The band's first album of new material in two years, ''[[Dynasty (album)|Dynasty]]'' ([[May 23]], [[1979]]), continued their platinum streak. The album contained what would become the biggest single in the history of the band, "[[I Was Made For Lovin' You]]." The song, which combined elements of hard rock with [[disco]], was a top ten hit throughout the world (peaking at #11 in the U.S.).<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', p. 342.</ref> ''Dynasty'' was recorded using session drummer [[Anton Fig]], at the request of producer [[Vini Poncia]], who felt that Criss's drumming skills were not adequate. The only contribution made by the increasingly discontented Criss to ''Dynasty'' was "Dirty Livin'," which he co-wrote and sang.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 346-347.</ref>
===V===
Billed as "The Return of Kiss," the ''Dynasty'' tour was expected by Kiss and their management to build on the success of previous tours. Plans were drawn up for a Kiss-themed traveling [[amusement park]], called Kiss World, but were abandoned due to the immense costs involved.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 102–105.</ref> Rather than being the band's biggest and most successful tour, "The Return of Kiss" saw a marked decline in attendance.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 98.</ref>
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*'''[[Eddie Van Halen]]''' - used a Les Paul, a Flying V and an Explorer.{{Fact|date=April 2007}}
===W===
One very public indication of the heightened friction within the group was an infamous [[October 31]], [[1979]] interview on [[Tom Snyder]]'s late-night ''The Tomorrow Show''. During it, a visibly irritated Simmons and Stanley try to contain the bombastic (and drunk) Frehley, whose non-stop laughter and joking overshadowed the content and conversation that takes place between Snyder and the rest of the band. Criss made repeated references to his large gun collection, to the chagrin of Simmons.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 170–171.</ref>
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
[[Image:JoeWalsh.jpg|thumb|right|160px|Joe Walsh playing a Les Paul in concert]]
*'''[[Joe Walsh]]''' ([[Eagles]]) - uses a Les Paul Standard and used an EDS-1275 occasionally.
*'''[[Muddy Waters]]''' - used a Les Paul Goldtop in his early career.<ref>{{cite book |last=Kitts |first=Jeff |title=The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time! |publisher=Hal Leonard |id=ISBN 0-634-04619-5 |pages=pg. 39, 40}}</ref>
*'''[[Leslie West]]''' - ([[Mountain (band)|Mountain]]) - Demand for the Les Paul Junior greatly increased after guitarists saw one in the hands of Leslie West.<ref>{{cite book |last=Bacon |first=Tony |title=50 Years of the Gibson Les Paul |publisher=Backbeat Books |id=ISBN 0-87930-711-0 |pages=pg. 76}}</ref> Gibson began to reissue the model in the mid 1970s. West also used an SG and a Flying V.
*'''[[Snowy White]]''' - ([[Thin Lizzy]]/solo) - uses a Les Paul Goldtop.
*'''[[Carl Wilson]]''' ([[The Beach Boys]]) - used a Gibson ES-335 and Gibson ES-355.
*'''[[Johnny Winter]]''' - uses a Firebird. Has also used Les Pauls, SGs, and Flying V's.
*'''[[Ron Wood]]''' ([[The Faces]]/[[The Rolling Stones]]) - has a Signature J-200 acoustic. uses a black Les Paul Standard and a custom-built single-pickup L-5S.
*'''[[Zakk Wylde]]''' ([[Ozzy Osborne]]/[[Black Label Society]]) - uses a Les Paul Signature ''"Bull's Eye"'' model. Also uses a Signature ''"Buzzsaw"'' Les Paul model and Signature ''"Camo"'' Model with a Maple Neck, Fretboard and Camouflage finish. He is seen using a black EDS-1275 in the promotional video for [[In This River]]. Lately he has been using a Custom SG/Flying V ''"Bull's Eye"'' model for live Ozzy Ozborne shows. Wylde also had a new Custom Shop Flying V ''"Bull's Eye"'' model set for production.
===X===
By the conclusion of the ''Dynasty'' tour in December 1979, tensions between Criss and the rest of the band were at an all-time high. His drumming skills had noticeably eroded, and he even intentionally slowed down or stopped playing altogether during some concerts. The final show of the tour ([[December 16]], [[1979]]) was the last time Criss performed with the group, although he remained an official member for nearly six more months.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', pp. 97–98.</ref><ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 150–151.</ref>
===Y===
Yet the disagreements were hardly noticed by Kiss's new fan base. The crowds were very much younger than previous audiences had been, with many pre-adolescent children in Kiss makeup with their mothers and fathers (who were sometimes wearing the makeup themselves) in tow at most concerts. Kiss themselves did little to dissuade this new fan base, donning colorful costumes that reinforced a cartoonish image for these younger fans.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 100.</ref>
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
[[Image:AngusYoung1.JPG|200px|thumb|right|Angus Young playing his custom, heritage cherry SG]]
*'''[[Thom Yorke]]''' ([[Radiohead]]) - uses an ES-125-T and an ES-125. Previously used an SG (stolen in 1995).<ref>[http://www.sigur-ros.it/franz/RHG/Thom/thomguitars.html Thom Yorke gear list]</ref>
*'''[[Angus Young]]''' ([[AC/DC]]) - uses an SG.<ref>[http://www.classic-rock-legends-start-here.com/gibson-sg.html Angus Young interviewed about his dedicated use of the Gibson SG]</ref> Gibson produces an Angus Young Signature SG model.<ref>[http://www.gibson.com/Products/Accessories/Gear/Pickups/Angus%20Young%20Signature%20(1)/ Technical details for the Angus Young Signature model from Gibson.com]</ref>
*'''[[Neil Young]]''' - uses several Gibson acoustic and electric models. Young's main guitar, "[[Old Black]]", is a 1953 Goldtop Les Paul (painted black) with a [[Bigsby]] tailpiece. Young also has two other 1953 Goldtops, one which has modifications similar to Old Black, the other a stock original. Also uses a J-200, Mastertone GB-3 banjo and he used a 1958 Flying V on the Time Fades Away tour. .[http://members.tripod.com/~dangerbird/Albumlist/neilguitar.htm]
===Z===
With Criss's involvement in Kiss at an end, the group recorded the followup to ''Dynasty'' in early 1980. As with ''Dynasty'', this album was recorded with session drummer Anton Fig, although at the time his performance was uncredited. Showcasing a slick, contemporary pop sound, ''[[Unmasked]]'' ([[May 20]], [[1980]]) had the dubious distinction of being the first Kiss album since ''Dressed to Kill'' to fail to achieve platinum sales. Soon after the album's release, Criss's departure was officially announced, as was the announcement that the band would be auditioning his replacement.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 109.</ref><ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 101–102.</ref>
<!--IMPORTANT! All list entries MUST have an existing Wikipedia article passing [[WP:BIO]] criteria. Any entries lacking articles will be deleted. -->
*'''[[Frank Zappa]]''' - used Les Paul Custom and an ES-5 Switchmaster. His trademark guitar for most of the 1970s, a brown SG, was actually a homemade copy sold to him by a fan backstage. All guitars were usually heavily modified by Zappa; to include preamps, balanced outputs for studio work, and later, Fernandes sustainers.<ref>{{cite book |last=Chapman |first=Richard |title=Guitar, Music, History, Players |publisher=DK publishing |id=ISBN 0-7894-9700-X |pages=pg. 197}}</ref>
Kiss's first-ever replacement member, [[Eric Carr]] (born Paul Caravello on [[June 12]], [[1950]] in Brooklyn, New York City) was announced in late July 1980. He debuted with the group on [[July 25]] at New York's now-defunct [[Palladium (club)|Palladium]] Theatre. Due to disappointing domestic sales of ''Unmasked'', this was Kiss's only U.S. show in support of the album. The band's 1980 tour of [[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]], on the other hand, was one of the biggest in their history, as they played to sold-out crowds and received overwhelmingly positive press coverage.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 113.</ref><ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 102.</ref>
[[Image:The elder album cover.jpg||thumb||left||''Music From "The Elder"'' (1981) was a commercial disaster for the group.]]
For their next album, the band once again approached [[Bob Ezrin]], with whom Kiss had found success on ''Destroyer''. Early press reports indicated that the new album would be a return to the hard rock style that had originally brought the band success. What was released instead was 1981's ''[[Music From "The Elder"]]'', a [[concept album]] featuring medieval horns, strings, [[harp]]s, and [[synthesizer]]s.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', p. 460.</ref>
The album was presented as a soundtrack to a film that was never made, making it difficult (if not impossible) to follow the storyline. To make matters worse, having received negative feedback following their record company's preview of the album, Kiss altered the record's track sequence in most countries to emphasize potential singles "The Oath" and "A World Without Heroes," which all but guaranteed the inability of listeners to understand the already muddled storyline. Once released, fan reaction to ''The Elder'' was harsh; it failed to achieve gold status and peaked at #75 on the Billboard Album Chart.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 462-463.</ref>
The commercial failure of ''Music from "The Elder"'' forced Kiss to forego a supporting tour completely. The band made only a few appearances for the album, both in January 1982. One was a performance on the [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]] late-night variety program ''[[Fridays]]'', while the second was a lip-synched performance that was broadcast via satellite during Italy's Sanremo Festival.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 117.</ref>
Absent from the second performance was Frehley, who had become increasingly frustrated with Kiss's new musical direction. Upset with the band's decision to record a concept album (''Music from "The Elder"''), he did not actively participate in the album's creation. He recorded his guitar parts at his home studio in [[Wilton, Connecticut]] and mailed them to Ezrin. Another source of frustration for Frehley was that with the departure of Criss, and with Carr not being an equal partner in the band, he was often outvoted 2-to-1 on group matters. In June 1982, Frehley's departure from the band was negotiated, although he did not officially leave until December.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', p. 514.</ref><ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 243–244.</ref>
[[Image:Kiss Killers Album Cover.jpg|thumb|right|This [[Germany|German]] release of Kiss's 1982 ''Killers'' compilation shows the modified logo the band uses in Germany. As this album was unreleased in the U.S., German imports of ''Killers'' introduced the modified logo to many American fans.]]
Soon after, Kiss made major changes to their business dealings – chief among them was severing ties with their manager of nine years, Bill Aucoin, and cutting back on their unwieldy organizational tree. Although Frehley had already decided to leave the band, Simmons and Stanley needed for their record company to believe that Frehley was still in Kiss in order for the band to keep its newly renegotiated contract. So to keep up appearances, Frehley was pictured on the covers of 1982's ''[[Killers (Kiss album)|Killers]]'' and ''[[Creatures of the Night]]'', although he did not participate in the recording of either album.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 255–256.</ref>
''Creatures of the Night'' ([[October 13]], [[1982]]) was Kiss's heaviest album to date, and although it fared better than ''Music From "The Elder"'', it peaked at #45 on the charts and was not certified gold until 1994. In Frehley's absence, Kiss utilized a number of guitarists for the recording of the album, including [[Vinnie Vincent]] (born Vincent John Cusano on [[August 6]], [[1952]]). Vincent officially replaced Frehley as lead guitarist in December 1982, as the band embarked on its 10th Anniversary Tour.<ref>Gill, ''Focus'', pp. 493-495.</ref>
<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', pp. 118–120.</ref>
Vincent's hurriedly developed identity was that of an Egyptian warrior (with a gold [[ankh]] painted on his face), although he did not need this persona for very long. While the tour was a commercial disappointment in the U.S., the band did perform for the largest crowds of their career elsewhere, including 137,000 fans in [[Rio de Janeiro]], [[Brazil]] on [[June 18]], [[1983]]. The last show of the tour ([[June 25]] in [[São Paulo]], [[Brazil]]) was the final show the band performed in makeup until 1996.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 127.</ref>
===Unmasking and rebound (1983–95)===
[[Image:Lick it up cover.jpg||thumb||left||''Lick It Up'' (1983) was the group's first album after taking off the makeup, and it helped revitalize their career.]]
Sensing it was time for a change, Kiss made the decision to abandon their trademark makeup and costumes. They officially appeared in public without makeup for the first time on a [[September 18]], [[1983]] appearance on [[MTV]], which coincided with the release of the band's new album, ''[[Lick It Up]]''.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 289.</ref>
''Lick It Up'' became Kiss's first gold record in three years, but the tour was even more sparsely attended than the one for ''Creatures of the Night''. Due to quickly rising tensions between Vincent and the rest of Kiss (particularly Simmons and Stanley), Vincent was fired at the conclusion of the tour in March 1984. His replacement was [[Mark St. John]] (born Mark Norton on [[February 7]], [[1956]] in [[Hollywood]], [[California]]), a session player and guitar tutor.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', p. 294.</ref>
With St. John on board, Kiss released ''[[Animalize]]'' in September 1984. ''Animalize'' built on the success of ''Lick It Up'' and was the band's best-selling record during the decade. With the success of the album and subsequent tour, Kiss had recaptured some of their earlier glory (though not to the level of their '70s heyday). St. John, however, was soon taken ill with [[Reactive arthritis]] during tour rehearsals, and only performed at a handful of shows. He was fired from Kiss in December 1984 and replaced by [[Bruce Kulick]] (born [[December 12]], [[1953]] in Brooklyn), making him Kiss's fourth lead guitarist in three years.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', pp. 139–140.</ref>
The lineup of Stanley, Simmons, Carr, and Kulick turned out to be the most stable since the original, and for the rest of the 1980s Kiss released a series of platinum albums—1985's ''[[Asylum (album)|Asylum]]'', 1987's ''[[Crazy Nights]]'' and the 1988 greatest hits compilation ''[[Smashes, Thrashes & Hits]]''. ''Crazy Nights'', in particular, was one of Kiss's most successful albums overseas. The single "Crazy, Crazy Nights" ({{audio-nohelp|KISS Crazy Crazy Nights.ogg|sample}}) reached #4 on the singles chart in Britain, the highest showing to date for a Kiss song.<ref name="charts">[http://www.kissfaq.com/charts/scharts.html "Singles Chart Action"]. The KISSFAQ. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref>
[[Image:Asylum album cover.jpg|thumb|Although Kiss never duplicated their 1970s success in the 1980s, albums like ''Asylum'' (1985) still achieved platinum status.]]
Kiss ended the '80s with the 1989 release ''[[Hot in the Shade]]''. Although the album failed to achieve platinum status, it spawned the early 1990 hit ballad "[[Forever (Kiss song)|Forever]]," co-written by [[Michael Bolton]]. Peaking at #8, it was the group's highest-charting single since "I Was Made for Lovin' You" and was to be the band's last Top 10 single.<ref name="charts">[http://www.kissfaq.com/charts/scharts.html "Singles Chart Action"]. The KISSFAQ. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref>
During these non-makeup years, Kiss struggled with their identity and fan base. Simmons, arguably the dominating force in Kiss during the '70s, became less involved with the group in the '80s as he pursued outside interests; most notably, a film career. After the band's unmasking, he struggled with the loss of the Demon persona. During this time, Stanley became the driving force in Kiss, as well as their most prominent member.<ref>Lendt, ''Kiss and Sell'', pp. 311–312.</ref><ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 360–363.</ref>
The band decided to once again enlist Bob Ezrin to produce their first album of the 1990s. Before recording could begin in earnest, however, tragedy struck. In March 1991, it was discovered that Eric Carr had a [[tumor]] on his heart. It was successfully removed in an April surgery, but more tumors were soon discovered in his lungs. Carr received [[chemotherapy]] and was pronounced cancer-free in July. In September, he was hospitalized after suffering the first of two [[cerebral hemorrhage]]s. He died on [[November 24]], [[1991]] at the age of 41 (the same day as [[Freddie Mercury]]).<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 107.</ref><ref name="carrobit">[http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0CE1DE123DF935A15752C1A967958260 "Eric Carr, 41, Is Dead; Rock Band's Drummer"] ([[26 November]] [[1991]]). ''The New York Times''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref>
Though devastated, Kiss continued, bringing in former [[Black Sabbath]], [[Gary Moore]], [[Lita Ford]], and [[Alice Cooper]] drummer [[Eric Singer]] (born Eric Mensinger on [[May 12]], [[1958]] in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]]). Singer has a connection with the group, having played in Paul Stanley's backing band during his 1989 club tour.
Kiss released ''[[Revenge (Kiss album)|Revenge]]'' on [[May 18]], [[1992]]. It featured a leaner, harder-edged sound, as indicated by the first single, "Unholy" ({{audio-nohelp|KISS Unholy.ogg|sample}}). In a surprise move, Kiss enlisted the aid of Vinnie Vincent for songwriting duties. The album debuted in the Top 10 and went gold. Kiss embarked on a brief club tour of the U.S. in the spring of 1992, before beginning an American arena tour in September 1992. Kiss followed with the release of ''[[Alive III]]'' ([[May 14]], [[1993]]), which was recorded during the ''Revenge'' tour.
During this period, Kiss nostalgia started to pick up steam. June 1994 saw the release of ''[[Kiss My Ass: Classic Kiss Regrooved]]'', a compilation album featuring popular artists of the era putting their own spin on Kiss songs. The result was an eclectic mix, featuring [[Lenny Kravitz]]'s funky version of "Deuce" (with [[Stevie Wonder]] on [[harmonica]]), a [[ska punk]] version of "Detroit Rock City" by the [[Mighty Mighty Bosstones]], and [[Garth Brooks]]' straightforward take on "Hard Luck Woman," with Kiss as his backup band.
[[Image:KISS promo 1995.jpg|thumb|left|300px|On [[August 9]], [[1995]], the then-present lineup of Kiss performed with founding members Ace Frehley (3rd from right) and Peter Criss (2nd from left).]]
In 1995, the group released ''Kisstory'', a 440-page, nine-pound, detailed chronicling of the group's history to that point. That same year, the band embarked on a unique and well-received Worldwide Kiss Convention Tour. The conventions were all-day events, featuring displays of vintage Kiss stage outfits, instruments, and memorabilia, performances by Kiss cover bands, and dealers selling Kiss merchandise from every stage of the band's career. Kiss appeared live at the conventions, conducted question and answer sessions, signed autographs and performed a two-hour acoustic set comprised mostly of spontaneous fan requests. On the first U.S. date ([[June 17]], [[1995]]) Peter Criss appeared onstage with Kiss to sing "Hard Luck Woman" and "Nothin' to Lose." It was the first time Criss had performed publicly with the band in nearly 16 years.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 108–110.</ref><ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 217.</ref>
On [[August 9]], [[1995]], Kiss joined the long line of musicians to perform on ''[[MTV Unplugged]]''. The band contacted Criss and Frehley and invited them to participate in the event. Both joined Kiss on stage for several songs at the end of the set–"Beth," "2000 Man," "Nothin' to Lose," and "Rock and Roll All Nite."<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 108–110.</ref> The ''Unplugged'' appearance set off months of speculation that a possible reunion of the original Kiss lineup was in the works. In the weeks following the ''Unplugged'' concert, however, the band (with Kulick and Singer), returned to the studio for the first time in three years to record a followup to ''Revenge''. ''[[Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions]]'' was completed in February 1996, but its release was delayed for almost two years. [[Bootleg recording|Bootleg]] copies of the album circulated widely among fans.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', pp. 403–404.</ref>
While Kiss continued to exist publicly as Simmons, Stanley, Kulick, and Singer, arrangements for a reunion of the original lineup were in the works. These efforts culminated with a public event as dramatic as any the band had staged since their 1983 unmasking on MTV.
===Reunion (1996–2002)===
{{quotation|''You know how the Grammys used to be, all straight-looking folks with suits. Everybody looking tired. No surprises. We tired of that. We need something different, something new. We need to shock the people. So let's shock the people!|''Tupac Shakur}}
With that statement on [[February 28]], [[1996]], [[Tupac Shakur]] introduced the original Kiss lineup (in full makeup and ''Love Gun''-era stage outfits), to a rousing ovation at the 38th Annual [[Grammy Awards]].<ref name="grammy">[http://www.mtv.com/bands/g/news_feature_grammyflashback/1996/ "Grammy Flashback 1996"]. MTV. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref> On [[April 16]], the band held a press conference aboard the [[USS Intrepid (CV-11)|USS Intrepid]] in New York, where they announced their plans for a full-fledged reunion tour, with the help of new manager [[Doc McGhee]]. The conference, emceed by [[Conan O'Brien]], was simulcast to 58 countries. On [[April 20]], nearly 40,000 tickets for the tour's first show sold out in 47 minutes.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 224.</ref>
The first public concert featuring the newly reunited Kiss was an hour-long warm up show on June 15 for the annual [[KROQ Weenie Roast]] in [[Irvine, CA]], during which the band nearly ignited the stage of the Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 225.</ref> On June 28, the Kiss Alive/Worldwide Tour began at Tiger Stadium in [[Detroit, Michigan]] in front of a sold-out crowd of 39,867 fans. The tour lasted for 192 shows over eleven months and earned $43.6 million, making Kiss the top-drawing concert act of 1996.<ref name="AP">Associated Press. ([[30 December]] [[1996]]). [http://www.usatoday.com/news/vault/nv96009.htm "Kiss is top concert draw of 1996"]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref> The average attendance of 13,737 is the highest in the group's history.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 224.</ref>
In September 1998, the reunited group issued ''[[Psycho Circus]]''. Despite its appearance as the first album with the original lineup since 1977's ''Love Gun,'' the contributions of Frehley and Criss were minimal. While the images of Frehley and Criss are featured prominently on the album, most of the lead guitar work was later revealed to have been performed by future band member [[Tommy Thayer]] and former member Bruce Kulick. Most drum duties were handled by session musician Kevin Valentine. Despite the controversy, the album achieved a #3 chart debut, the highest ever position for a Kiss album. The [[Psycho Circus (song)|title track]] received a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance.<ref name="psychogrammy">[http://www.cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/specials/1999/grammys/bigpicture.html "41st annual Grammy nominees and winners"]. CNN. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref> The Psycho Circus Tour opened at [[Dodger Stadium]] in [[Los Angeles, California]] on [[Halloween]] night 1998, and was simulcast on FM radio across the U.S. It proved to be another success, and was historic for being the first to ever incorporate [[Dimension|3-D]] visuals into a stage show.<ref>Leaf and Sharp, ''Behind the Mask'', p. 112, 115.</ref><ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 245.</ref>
On [[August 11]], [[1999]], Kiss was inducted into the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]], in the "Recording Industry" category. [[August 13]] saw the nationwide premiere of a Kiss-themed [[motion picture]], titled ''[[Detroit Rock City (film)|Detroit Rock City]]''. The movie takes place in 1978, and focuses on four teenagers (featuring [[Edward Furlong]]) willing to do anything to score tickets for a sold-out Kiss show in Detroit.
The month, the group worked in collaboration with [[World Championship Wrestling]] to produce a Kiss-themed wrestler known as [[Dale Torborg|The Kiss Demon]] whose face was painted to resemble Simmons. The group performed "God of Thunder" live on [[WCW Monday Nitro]] to debut the character. The character was short-lived, as all ties to Kiss were cut by WCW when its head, [[Eric Bischoff]] was relieved of his duties in September of that year.
Kiss announced in early 2000 that they would be launching a U.S. Farewell Tour in the summer, which was to be the band's last.<ref name="farewell">Rosen, Craig. [[February 14]] [[2000]]. [http://music.yahoo.com/read/news/12039021 "Kiss 'Farewell' Tour Dates Announced"]. Yahoo! Music. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref> The group quickly added dates to the tour, which ran through April 2001. 2001 also saw the release of a computer game, ''Kiss Psycho Circus: The Nightmare Child''.
On the eve of the Japanese and Australian leg of the Farewell tour in early 2001, Criss suddenly left the band once again, reportedly unhappy with his salary. Taking his place was previous Kiss drummer Singer who, in a controversial move among longtime fans, assumed Criss's Cat Man persona as the Farewell Tour continued.<ref name="rosen">Rosen, Craig. ([[31 January]] [[2001]]). [http://music.yahoo.com/read/news/12054736 "Peter Criss Leaves Kiss, Eric Singer Steps In"]. ''Yahoo! Music''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref> Simmons and Stanley own Criss's makeup designs (as well as Frehley's), so there was no way for Criss to prevent this.
With the band scheduled to call it a day supposedly by early 2001, a career-encompassing collection entitled ''[[The Box Set]]'' (94 tracks on five CDs) was released in November of that year, while the summer saw perhaps the most over-the-top piece of Kiss merchandise yet – the [[Kiss Kasket]]. In introducing the Kiss Kasket, Simmons quipped, "I love livin', but this makes the alternative look pretty damn good."<ref name="kasket">[http://www.nyrock.com/worldbeat/06_2001/061401.asp "KISS Introduce Their Latest Merchandising Endeavor: The KISS Kasket"]. NYRock. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref>
Kiss was relatively quiet through the rest of the year, but 2002 started with some controversy as Simmons took part in a controversial interview on [[National Public Radio]], where he criticized NPR and berated host [[Terry Gross]] with sexual comments and condescending answers.<ref name="NPR"> [http://www.maniahill.com/funny/Gene_Simmons_Terry_Gross_Fresh_Air_02_04_2002.htm Transcript of [[February 4]], [[2002]] appearance of Gene Simmons on NPR's ''Fresh Air'']. Retrieved [[July 30]] [[2006]].</ref> In February 2002, Kiss (with Singer on drums and Frehley on lead guitar) performed during the Closing Ceremonies of the [[2002 Winter Olympics]] in [[Salt Lake City, Utah]].
On [[March 6]], [[2002]], Kiss performed a private concert at a resort in Trelawny, [[Jamaica]]. Frehley, who was no longer under contract, did not play with the group. He was replaced by Tommy Thayer, who donned Frehley's Spaceman makeup and costume for his first live appearance with Kiss.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 269.</ref> That month, the band (with Thayer) taped an appearance on the American [[situation comedy|sitcom]] ''[[That '70s Show]]''.<ref name="sitcom">{{cite web |url=http://www.tommythayer.com/about/ |title=About Tommy Thayer |accessdate=2007-01-27}}</ref> The episode, "That '70s Kiss Show," aired in August 2002. Thayer again performed with the group in April 2002, when Kiss performed "Detroit Rock City" (with pre-recorded music and live vocals) for an appearance on ''Dick Clark's American Bandstand 50th Anniversary'' show, which aired on May 3.<ref>Gooch and Suhs, ''KISS Alive Forever'', p. 270.</ref>
===Post-reunion (2003–present)===
In February 2003, Kiss traveled to [[Australia]] and recorded ''[[Kiss Symphony: Alive IV]]'' with the [[Melbourne Symphony Orchestra]] at the [[Telstra Dome]] in [[Melbourne]]. Thayer once again replaced Frehley, while Peter Criss returned to the group.
Despite claims made prior to the Farewell Tour that it would be the group's last, Kiss announced a co-headlining tour with [[Aerosmith]] in 2003. Frehley announced that his departure from the band was permanent, stating that he believed the Farewell Tour would be Kiss's last.<ref name="frehleyout">[http://www.pollstar.com/news/viewnews.pl?NewsID=2715 "Frehley Freestyle"]. ([[July 25]] [[2003]]). ''Infoplease''. Retrieved [[April 17]] [[2006]].</ref> He was permanently replaced by Thayer. On this tour the group introduced the "Platinum" tickets package, with the most expensive packages costing USD $1,000. This package included a seat in the first five rows, a meet-and-greet with Kiss after their performance, and a photograph with the band.<ref name="platinum">{{cite web |url=http://www.kissonline.com/news/index.php?mode=archive&id=2657 |title=KISSONLINE PRESALE AND TICKET PACKAGE DETAILS |accessdate=2007-01-27}}</ref> The tour earned more than US$64 million in 2003, which ranked #7 for the year.<ref name="2003tour">[http://www.infoplease.com/ipea/A0921829.html "2003 Top 20 Concert Tours"]. ''Infoplease''. Retrieved [[April 17]] [[2006]].</ref>
Simmons and Stanley did not renew Criss's contract when it expired in March 2004. Criss, on his website, stated that "No one, again no one has called me, or my attorney about an extension for future touring. As a founding member I find this to be disrespectful to me, and to the fans that have made us one of the biggest bands in the world."<ref name="criss2004">[http://web.archive.org/web/20040411154646/www.petercriss.net/homepage/ Peter Criss statement on his expired contract]. ([[2 March]] [[2004]]). ''Petercriss.net''. Retrieved [[April 17]] [[2006]] from the [[Internet Archive]].</ref> Criss was replaced for the second time by Singer.
During the summer of 2004, Kiss headlined the Rock the Nation 2004 World Tour, with [[Poison (band)|Poison]] as the opening act. The tour ended in August with a sold-out show in [[Mexico City]]. Selected dates on the tour were filmed for the ''Rock the Nation Live!'' concert DVD, released on [[December 13]], [[2005]].<ref name="prato">Prato, Greg. ([[8 November]] [[2005]]). [http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1001435938 "Kiss Keeps Rocking With Live DVD"]. ''Billboard''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref> Stanley, who had been experiencing increasing difficulty with his [[Hip (anatomy)|hip]], had his mobility limited during the tour. He has already had two hip surgeries performed, with more likely in the future.<ref name="hip">[http://www.therockradio.com/2005/12/kiss-frontman-needs-more-hip-surgery.html "Kiss frontman needs more hip surgery"]. ([[14 December]] [[2005]]) ''The Rock Radio''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref>
[[Image:KISSCollage2-1000.jpg|thumb|320px|Kiss in concert at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, on July 26, 2006.]]
Since the conclusion of the Rock the Nation Tour, Kiss has been relatively inactive as a touring act. The group played two shows in 2005, and another six in 2006. Four of the 2006 shows were July concerts in Japan, including two dates ([[July 22]] and 23) as a headlining act at the 2006 Udo Music Festival. Most recently, Kiss performed two dates at Chumash Casino Resort in [[Santa Ynez, California]] on [[July 26]] and 28. No future concerts are currently scheduled.
Despite the relative lack of concert activity since 2004, the group has remained visible. Kiss (along with [[Queen (band)|Queen]], [[Def Leppard]], and [[Judas Priest]]) was honored at the first annual "VH1 Rock Honors" event, held [[May 25]], [[2006]] in [[Las Vegas]]. On [[April 9]], [[2006]], the [[Associated Press]] announced the event by saying "the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame looks to be getting some competition."<ref name="cohen">Cohen, Jonathan. ([[6 April]] [[2006]]). [http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002313374 "VH1 Rock Honors To Salute Kiss, Queen"]. ''Billboard''. Retrieved [[April 16]] [[2006]].</ref> A tribute band, consisting of [[Rob Zombie]] (vocals), [[Slash (musician)|Slash]] (guitar), [[Scott Ian]] (bass), and [[Supernova (Rock Star band)|Supernova]] bandmates [[Tommy Lee]] (drums) and [[Gilby Clarke]] (guitar), performed "God of Thunder" with Ace Frehley.
In June 2006, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley attended the opening of the [[Kiss Coffeehouse]] in [[Myrtle Beach, South Carolina]]. On [[October 15]], [[2006]], Simmons, Stanley, and Criss were inaugural inductees into the [[Long Island Music Hall of Fame]], along with performers such as [[Neil Diamond]], [[Billy Joel]], [[Louis Armstrong]], [[The Ramones]] and [[Tony Bennett]].<ref name="longisland">([[22 April]] [[2006]]). [http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=51145 "KISS Members To Be Inducted Into LONG ISLAND MUSIC HALL OF FAME"]. ''Blabbermouth.net''. Retrieved [[April 23]] [[2006]].</ref> Stanley released a solo album, ''[[Live to Win]]'', on October 24 and undertook a brief solo tour in support. On October 31, the group released ''[[Kissology Volume One: 1974–1977]]'', the first of ten possible DVD sets featuring concert footage, interviews, and never-before-seen clips.<ref name="simmonsonkissology">[http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003409147 Kiss To Continue Raiding Vaults For DVD Series]. ([[16 November]] [[2006]]). ''Billboard''. Retrieved [[December 7]] [[2006]].</ref> As of January 2007, the set is certified quintuple platinum in the United States.<ref name="quintuple">{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=65644 |title=KISS: 'Kissology' Certified Quintuple-Platinum |accessdate=2007-01-22 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]]}}</ref> Stanley has stated that Kiss turned down a tour in the summer of 2007, but that it is inevitable that they will tour again in the future.<ref name=newkisstour>{{cite web|title="Paul Stanley Kiss and Tell"|url=http://kissonline.com/news/index.php?mode=fullstory&id=4181}}</ref>
Though Kiss is eligible for enshrinement in the [[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame]] (whose rules state that an act is eligible 25 years after its first release), they have not been nominated. While this snub displeases some fans, Stanley and Simmons maintain that it is meaningless to them. Nevertheless, a group of about 200 Kiss fans held a protest rally in front of the Hall of Fame in [[Cleveland, Ohio]] on [[August 5]], [[2006]]. It was the first known organized demonstration seeking the induction of a band into the Hall.<ref name="rally"> [http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060806/ap_en_mu/rock_hall_kiss_fans;_ylt=At7FHHLraNzJNdLfTyt39H98FxkF;_ylu=X3oDMTA3YXYwNDRrBHNlYwM3NjI- "Kiss fans protest Rock Hall of Fame snub"]. ([[6 August]] [[2006]]). ''Associated Press''. Retrieved [[August 6]] [[2006]].</ref> A similar march was scheduled to be held in [[Melbourne, Australia]], but was subsequently cancelled.
==Personnel==
{{details|Kiss band members}}
===Current members===
*[[Paul Stanley]] – [[rhythm guitar]], [[vocals]] (1973–present)
*[[Gene Simmons]] – [[bass guitar]], vocals (1973–present)
*[[Eric Singer]] – [[drum kit|drums]] (1991-1996, 2001–2002, 2004–present)
*[[Tommy Thayer]] – [[lead guitar]] (2002–present)
===Past members===
*[[Peter Criss]] – drums, vocals (1973–1980, 1996–2001, 2002–2004)
*[[Ace Frehley]] – lead guitar, vocals (1973–1982, 1996–2002)
*[[Eric Carr]] – drums, vocals (1980–1991)
*[[Vinnie Vincent]] – lead guitar (1982–1984)
*[[Mark St. John]] – lead guitar (1984)
*[[Bruce Kulick]] – lead guitar (1984–1996)
==Discography and filmography==
{{see details|Kiss discography}}
==Timeline==
{{see details|Kiss timeline}}
==Additional reading==
*Gill, Julian (2005). ''The Kiss Album Focus (3rd Edition), Volume 2''. Xlibris Corporation. ISBN 1-59926-358-0.
*Gill, Julian (2005). ''The Kiss & Related Recordings Focus: Music! the Songs, the Demo, the Lyrics And Stories!''. Xlibris Corporation. ISBN 1-59926-360-2.
*Gill, Julian (2006). ''The Kiss Album Focus (3rd Edition), Volume 3''. Booksurge Publishing. ISBN 0-97222-535-8.
*Sherman, Dale (1997). ''Black Diamond: The Unauthorized Biography of Kiss''. Collectors Guide Publishing Inc. ISBN 1-896522-35-1.
*Simmons, Gene, Paul Stanley, and Waring Abbott (2002). ''Kiss: The Early Years''. Three Rivers Press. ISBN 0-609-81028-6.
*Tomarkin, Peggy (1980). ''Kiss: The Real Story, Authorized''. Delacorte Press. ISBN 0-440-04834-6.
==Notes==
{{reflist|2}}
==References==
<div class="references-small">
<references />
* {{cite book
| last = Gill
| first = Julian
| title = The Kiss Album Focus, Volume 1 (3rd Edition)
| publisher = Xlibris Corporation
| date = 2005
| ___location =
| id= ISBN 1-4134-8547-2}}
* {{cite book
| last = Gooch
| first = Curt
| coauthors= Jeff Suhs
| title = Kiss Alive Forever: The Complete Touring History
| publisher = Billboard Books
| date = 2002
| ___location = New York
| id= ISBN 0-8230-8322-5}}
* {{cite book
| last = Leaf
| first = David
| coauthors= Ken Sharp
| title = Kiss: Behind the Mask: The Official Authorized Biography
| publisher = Warner Books
| date = 2003
| ___location = New York
| id= ISBN 0-446-53073-5}}
* {{cite book
| last = Lendt
| first = C.K.
| title = Kiss and Sell: The Making of a Supergroup
| publisher = Billboard Books
| date = 1997
| ___location = New York
| id= ISBN 0-8230-7551-6}}
* {{cite book
| last = Simmons
| first = Gene
| authorlink=Gene Simmons
| title = Kiss and Make-Up
| publisher = Crown
| date = 2001
| ___location = New York
| id= ISBN 0-609-60855-X}}
</div>
==See also==
[[Gibson Guitar Corporation]]
* [[List of best-selling music artists]]
==External links==
{{commonscat|KISS (band)}}
* Official websites of:
** [http://www.kissonline.com/ Kiss]
** [http://www.petercriss.net/ Peter Criss]
** [http://www.kulick.net/ Bruce Kulick]
** [http://www.genesimmons.com/ Gene Simmons]
** [http://www.paulstanley.com/ Paul Stanley]
** [http://www.eric-singer.com/ Eric Singer]
** [http://www.tommythayer.com/ Tommy Thayer]
* [[Snopes.com]] pages on:
** [http://www.snopes.com/music/hidden/kiss.htm Kiss]
** [http://www.snopes.com/music/artists/tongue.htm Gene Simmons' tongue]
{{Kiss}}
[[Category:Kiss]]
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[[Category:Musical groups established in 1973]]
[[Category:Hollywood Walk of Fame]]
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[[Category:Lists of guitarists|Gibson]]
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